If you have a supported GPS device, you can track data in Google Earth.
What you'll need
- A GPS device that's supported by Google Earth. If your device isn’t supported, try importing GPS data as a .gpx or .loc file.
- A serial or USB cable.
Choose which GPS points to see in Google Earth
- Tracks: Automatically recorded by the GPS device as you travel.
- Waypoints: Your saved locations, such as "home."
- Routes: Used by the GPS device to create a route from one recorded point to another recorded point. Routes can contain multiple sets of directions and can be imported into Google Earth as paths.
There are two ways to import your GPS data into Google Earth:
After you import GPS data
Choose how to see your data
Troubleshoot importing issues
Find imported GPS data files
Real-Time GPS Tracking
If you connect your laptop to a GPS device while you’re traveling, you can see your GPS location in real time in Google Earth.
- Follow steps 1-6 under Import GPS data.
- In the "GPS Import" window, click Realtime.
- Select the appropriate options:
- Select protocol: If you're not sure what to use, choose "NMEA."
- Track point import limit: The max number of positions that are saved and drawn on the screen.
- Polling interval (seconds): How often Google Earth gets data from the GPS device.
- Automatically follow the path: Centers the 3D viewer and follows the current GPS track.
- Click Start.